The Posture Plank: How Dr. Brian Kulbieda Turned One Brilliant Idea into a Movement | Conversations with a Chiropractor

In this inspiring and wildly entertaining episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier welcomes fellow Marquette chiropractor and inventor Dr. Brian Kulbieda, creator of the Posture Plank. What started as a daily observation in his practice became a national-scope product now helping people reclaim their spinal health—right from home.

Brian opens up about his lifelong passion for invention, the early days of chiropractic school, and how a broomstick, an elderly patient’s advice, and a late-night lightbulb moment sparked the design for a posture-correcting tool now being used across age groups and activity levels. Along the way, you'll hear stories of hockey hits, soldering smoke, business lessons, and the power of community in bringing a dream to life.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, clinician, or posture nerd, this is a story of grit, creativity, and genuine small-town brilliance.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• How the Posture Plank was born from one chiropractor’s hands-on frustration

• Why early posture training is vital—and how it can still be corrected in adulthood

• The process of invention: from NMU to prototyping to production to pandemic setbacks

• Tips for marketing a product, staying true to your mission, and reaching the masses

• The future of the Posture Plank—and how it could change the way we strengthen

• Posture Plank Website: https://postureplank.com

• Posture Plank on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/postureplank

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro

• Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wautierwellness

• Email for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction to Conversations with a Chiropractor 00:41 Meet Dr. Brian Kulbieda: The Inventor of the Posture Plank 01:11 Early Inspirations and Childhood Dreams 02:44 Journey to Becoming a Chiropractor 07:31 College Life and Personal Relationships 12:40 Starting a Chiropractic Practice 16:36 The Birth of an Invention 20:32 First Steps in Making the Idea a Reality 21:02 Collaborating with Invent at NMU 22:12 Designing the Posture Plank 24:04 Challenges and Setbacks 25:24 Innovative Solutions and New Ideas 29:21 Marketing and Distribution 34:22 Legal and Patent Considerations 36:08 Quality and Sustainability 37:08 Reaching the Masses 38:15 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

College, Career, and Common Sense: Educator Melanie Korczyk on Helping Students Thrive | Conversations with a Chiropractor

In this eye-opening episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with her sister, veteran educator Melanie Korczyk, for a powerful conversation on preparing students—not just for college, but for life.

With over two decades in the classroom and a growing career in executive functioning coaching, Melanie shares her insights on helping students build the real-world skills they need to thrive. From college essays to career paths, ADHD to anxiety, and the truth about community college versus the four-year university track—this episode is packed with grounded wisdom and practical tools for parents, students, and educators alike.

Whether you're raising a college-bound teen, guiding students through post-grad decisions, or reflecting on your own educational path, Melanie’s calm, compassionate perspective is a breath of fresh air.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• Why executive functioning skills are often more important than GPA

• How to guide kids through college decisions with financial awareness

• The truth about stigma and value around community college vs. university

• Tips for college essays, exploring career paths, and building student resilience

• What today’s students really need to hear—and what parents can do to help

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro

• Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wautierwellness

• Email for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest 00:32 Melanie's Early Inspiration to Teach 02:58 College Journey and Challenges 04:24 Transition to Western Michigan University 06:13 Early Teaching Career 08:12 Executive Functioning Coaching 13:18 Helping Students with College Preparation 16:07 Community College vs. Four-Year University 27:06 Career Path Guidance for Students 29:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this deeply personal and unexpectedly hilarious episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier turns the mic on her producer, voice actor, musician, and longtime friend—David Ploss.

Born with a rare condition called hemifacial microsomia, David opens up about his early medical challenges, childhood surgeries, and the emotional toll of growing up "different." But what unfolds is more than a story of resilience—it's a tale of self-discovery, creative expression, viral sea shanties, and an unforgettable high school crush that turns into the love of his life.

From TikTok fame to trumpet duets, this is a story about healing, humor, and the unpredictable magic of reconnection. It's also a tribute to Katie—the woman who changed everything.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• The impact of a rare congenital condition and a childhood shaped by reconstructive surgeries

• How David navigated school, bullying, and the emotional weight of feeling different

• A second chance at love with a high school bandmate—made possible by TikTok and sea shanties

• A tribute to partnership, music, and the powerful journey of becoming whole

• David’s TikTok (@ploss_vocal): https://www.tiktok.com/@ploss_vocal

• Watch “The Coronavirus Song” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODRmoWEp1lA

• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1GA7Nvl1FtMdJGnMDf9Q1G

• Stream David’s Music on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/be/artist/david-ploss/1504650155

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro

• Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wautierwellness

• Email for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome 01:21 Family History and Genetic Mutation 04:06 Childhood Challenges and Surgeries 11:39 Adolescence and Social Struggles 20:43 High School Band Memories 22:31 Reconnecting on TikTok 23:31 Sea Shanty Success 25:52 A Beautiful Reunion 33:14 A Tribute to Katie

In this insightful episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Jesse Ewell—entrepreneur, coach, and creator of Habit-Based Lifestyle. Jesse’s journey from personal trainer to gym owner to high-performance coach has given him a unique perspective on business, marriage, and personal growth.

Jesse shares how he built and sold multiple successful businesses, transitioned into coaching, and created a system that helps entrepreneurs prioritize what truly matters: faith, family, and personal well-being. His mission? Helping business owners avoid burnout, strengthen relationships, and create sustainable success.

From the lessons learned in amateur boxing at age 10 to scaling multimillion-dollar fitness facilities, Jesse’s philosophy is built on discipline, habits, and finding alignment between professional success and personal fulfillment. If you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or simply looking for ways to balance work and life more effectively, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• How Jesse’s personal journey shaped his Habit-Based Lifestyle philosophy
• The impact of prioritizing faith, family, and self-care over work
• Why most entrepreneurs struggle with burnout and how to break the cycle
• The power of habits in growing a thriving business without losing yourself
• How Jesse helps chiropractors and health professionals streamline success

• Follow Jesse on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesse.ewell
• Habit-Based Lifestyle: https://habitbasedlifestyle.com
• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction to Conversations with a Chiropractor 01:16 Jesse's Journey into Chiropractic Care 03:32 From Personal Training to Business Coaching 07:58 Balancing Business and Family Life 11:26 Launching Habit-Based Lifestyle 20:36 VIP Weight Loss System and Business Insights 28:59 Marriage Advice and Final Thoughts

In this powerful episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Amanda Brunngraeber to explore her profound journey of personal healing, self-discovery, and helping others. Amanda opens up about her experiences with generational trauma, the challenges of navigating teenage turmoil, and how her work in photography evolved into a path of holding space for herself and her community.

Through candid reflections, Amanda shares how healing modalities like EMDR and spiritual practices have helped her break cycles, reclaim her sense of self, and guide others on their own journeys. Her story is one of vulnerability, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating compassionate spaces where people can feel seen and supported.

If you’re navigating your own healing journey or curious about how to better hold space for yourself and others, this episode offers heartfelt insights and encouragement.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• How Amanda’s photography career became a gateway to deeper personal healing
• The effects of generational trauma and ways to break its cycle
• Practical insights into EMDR and other healing modalities
• What it means to truly "hold space" for yourself and those around you
• The transformative power of vulnerability and community support

• Follow Amanda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanda.brunngraeber
• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:56 Amanda's Photography Journey 05:06 Personal Healing and Generational Trauma 21:50 Teenage Turmoil and Parental Challenges 22:16 Discovering the Power of Holding Space 23:57 The Journey of EMDR and Spiritual Healing 33:02 Embracing the Healing Journey and Helping Others

In this deeply personal episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier sits down with Cat H, who shares her powerful journey of losing 115 pounds—but this story isn’t just about weight loss. It’s about breaking free from the mental and emotional burdens of body image, healing from past struggles, and discovering confidence and self-worth beyond the scale.

From childhood influences on food and body image to the emotional and mental challenges that come with weight stigma, Cat’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and transformation. She and Dr. Stephanie explore the connection between mental health and physical health, shedding light on the power of mindset in creating lasting change. Whether you’ve struggled with weight, self-acceptance, or the societal pressures of body image, this episode is a powerful reminder that true transformation starts from within.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• How childhood and family influences shaped Cat’s relationship with food and body image
• The emotional and mental toll of weight stigma and self-doubt
• The mindset shifts that led to lasting health, confidence, and freedom
• Why true transformation is about more than just the number on the scale

Stay Connected & Explore:

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction to Conversations with a Chiropractor 00:46 Diving into the Weight Loss Journey 01:25 Childhood and Family Influences on Weight 04:09 Struggles with Food and Self-Image 12:23 Mental Health and Weight Connection 17:39 Finding Freedom and Moving Forward

Start your new year with intention and positivity in this inspiring episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor! Dr. Stephanie Wautier explores the science and mindset behind successful resolutions, highlighting how positive self-talk can transform your goals and your life. Drawing insights from the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Masaru Emoto’s Rice Experiment, and her own reflections, Dr. Stephanie shares practical tools to shift your mindset, nurture self-worth, and approach the new year with renewed energy.

This episode is packed with affirmations, actionable tips, and powerful anecdotes to help you embrace the belief that you are worthy of success, abundance, and love—just as you are.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• The power of positive self-talk and its impact on your health and well-being
• Insights from Dr. Emoto’s Rice Experiment and its connection to intention and energy
• Practical affirmations and tools to build self-confidence and self-worth
• Why resolutions rooted in self-love lead to lasting change

Stay Connected & Explore:

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and New Year's Reflections 01:17 The Power of Positive and Negative Self-Talk 03:12 Exploring the Rice Experiment 06:25 Practical Tips for Positive Self-Talk

Stephanie’s Holiday Scandinavian Sentiments | Conversations with a Chiropractor

In this special holiday episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier shares her heartwarming reflections on Scandinavian heritage, cherished family traditions, and the simple joys of the season. From the comforting aroma of cardamom bread baking in the kitchen to embracing the essence of hygge (cozy comfort), Stephanie invites us to slow down, find peace, and connect with what truly matters during the holidays.

Whether you’re honoring old traditions or creating new ones, this episode offers inspiration to savor the season’s beauty and warmth—one small moment at a time.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• The significance of cardamom bread and its deep connection to family and heritage
• Scandinavian concepts like hygge and fika that inspire holiday mindfulness
• How to create space for peace and joy amid the hustle of the season

Stay Connected & Explore:

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

00:00 Introduction to Conversations with a Chiropractor 00:41 Holiday Memories and Scandinavian Heritage 03:52 The Significance of Cardamom and Traditions 05:38 Finding Peace and Joy During the Holidays

In this episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier welcomes Greta Hillstrom, the inspiring owner of Fancy Free, Marquette’s premiere curated resale shop. Greta’s journey, from her eclectic upbringing to becoming a local business owner, is a testament to creativity, resilience, and the power of community.

She shares the heartfelt stories behind the treasures in her shop, her philosophy of living “fancy free,” and the passion that drives her to connect with people through art, music, and secondhand finds. Join us as we explore how Greta turned her vision into a vibrant community hub and hear the beautiful original song that encapsulates her unique journey.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• The story behind Fancy Free and its impact on the Marquette community
• How Greta’s upbringing and travels shaped her creative approach
• The balance of running a business and fostering artistry
• A live performance of Greta’s original song, reflecting her journey

Stay Connected & Explore:

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Conversations with a Chiropractor 00:41 Meet Greta: Owner of Fancy Free 01:35 Greta's Adventurous Journey Begins 04:40 Life as a Modern-Day Nomad 07:57 The Philosophy Behind Fancy Free 20:34 Greta's Diverse Job Experiences 22:10 Sharing Art and Music with Children 22:44 Breaking Point: Asking for a Raise 24:32 Quitting and Moving On 26:12 Starting Fancy Free 27:05 Creating a Creative Community 28:29 Music and Family Background 29:32 Fancy Free's Growth and Challenges 34:26 Holiday Season and Special Offers

In this heartfelt episode of Conversations with a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier welcomes Holly Smith, owner of Michigan Made in the Upper Peninsula, to share her story of resilience, family values, and dedication to community. Holly opens up about the challenges she’s faced as a single mom, a hockey mom, and an advocate for her son with autism—all while building a business that proudly supports local artisans and showcases the best of Michigan.

With humor and wisdom, Holly reflects on her journey, the impact of family, and her passion for creating a space that uplifts the community. Through her candid stories, she inspires with her mantra of finding joy in the little things and embracing every day with a positive spirit.

🎧 In This Episode, Discover:

• The inspiring journey behind Michigan Made and Holly’s mission to support local artisans
• Holly’s experiences as a mother and advocate for her son with autism
• Life lessons from her adventures as a hockey mom, including founding an all-girls hockey team in the UP
• How resilience, family, and community have shaped her business and outlook on life

Stay Connected & Explore:

• Follow Us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaChiro
• Follow Us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/wautierwellness
• Email Us for Show-Related Inquiries and Sponsorships: [email protected]

Credits: Podcast production by Brand|Sound. Start your podcast journey by emailing [email protected].

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Conversations with a Chiropractor 00:41 Meet Holly: Owner of Michigan Made Businesses 01:16 Raising Four Children and Blending Families 02:05 Emily's Journey: From Dance to Hockey 02:50 Creating a Girls' Hockey Team 06:38 The Challenges and Triumphs of Autism 11:15 Starting Michigan Made: From Idea to Reality 14:08 Expanding and Managing Multiple Locations 17:33 Family and Grandchildren 18:09 Concert Memories 20:07 Love for Water and Nature 20:38 Work Ethic and Job Satisfaction 21:33 Partnership and Support 23:30 Business Recognition and Community 25:47 Finding Joy and Positivity 30:48 Grounding and Night Sky 31:53 Final Thoughts and Gratitude